13 Holiday Destinations In Mexico To Ace Your Escape
It’s a holiday hotspot favourite with couples, groups or families. But which part of Mexico is best for a holiday?
Mexico is an incredibly popular location. The incredible white sand beaches, stunning resorts, incredible culture and mouth-watering menus see to that. But which part of Mexico is best for a holiday?
So many amazing features, as well as coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific sides of the country, means there’s no shortage of holiday destination options. But that can be a problem when you’re trying to find out where’s the best place to stay.
In this blog we’ll overview the 13 top spots and tell you which part of Mexico is best for a holiday. So you know where to stay and when.
Which Part Of Mexico Is Best For A Holiday?
Picking the perfect holiday spot for you in Mexico can be something of a headache. But we’ve narrowed your choices down to these 13 stellar stays.
- Cancun
- Riviera Maya
- Tulum
- Playa Del Carmen
- Cozumel
- Puerto Vallarta
- Pueblos Magicos
- San Miguel de Allende
- Oaxaca
- Akumal
- Puerto Morelos
- Baja Peninsula
- Costa Mujeres
Now why don’t we tell you what makes them so impressive and what type of traveller each would suit best?
Cancun
Located in the state of Quintana Roo, on the Caribbean coast, this once small fishing village is now a sprawling city adorned with luxurious hotels for every traveller.
Think of Cancun and your first thought probably goes to white-sand beaches, glistening ocean and sunshine galore. One thing’s for sure, Cancun is the ultimate holiday destination. And top of the list for many when choosing where to stay in Mexico. Whether your idea of a great holiday is soaking up the sun, embarking on an adventure, dancing into the small hours or diving into an array of water-sports, Cancun has it all.
That’s why it’s such a great choice for anyone visiting Mexico for the first time. There’s a host of incredible resorts scattered along the coastline that are perfect for couples and families alike. Furthermore, adventure is never far away with epic attractions like Chichen Itza are easily doable in a day trip.
We’d recommend Cancun for anyone looking for an exciting holiday, who loves the beach life and who might want to get out and about and do a little exploring too.
Riviera Maya
Marking its place on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is the highly popular resort of Riviera Maya. Similarly, to Cancun, years ago Riviera Maya was just a tiny village, but fast-forward and it now boasts high-end resorts, an array of fine dining opportunities, incredible nightlife, shopping and more. Everything is focused on the coast, thanks to the barrier reef system here being the second longest in the world. With over 120km of turquoise shoreline there are endless water activities to choose from.
For those with an interest in history there’s a host of traditional Mayan villages within easy reach where you will be transported back in time. Take the opportunity to sample local culture and of course the flavours of the region. The unique location of the Riviera Maya also means a stay here places you perfectly for an adventure. Choose from the ruins of Chichen Itza or Xcaret Park.
Similarly to Cancun, Riviera Maya is great for Mexico first-timers and also has a lot of repeat holidaymakers who visit time and again. Did we mention it’s also home to some award-winning resorts?
Tulum
Venture over to Tulum, a bohemian paradise. It’s a place to see and be seen, with busy beach clubs and stylish resorts. Therefore, it’s one of the most expensive parts of Mexico to visit. Surrounding the area is a dense jungle complete with cenotes and large nature reserves, making the area incredibly beautiful. Tulum is also one of the most popular archaeological zones in Mexico.
Tulum is another destination in Mexico that you’ve probably heard of. Like Cancun and Riviera Maya it’s renowned for amazing beaches, with the Insta-worthy Playa Paraíso probably the most well known. Tulum is also home to unique cultural hotspots like the Mayan Ruins of Coba, complete with a huge pyramid that you can climb.
It’s location next to the jungle also makes Tulum a great choice for those looking for aquatic adventures. Splash around in cenotes, kayak through verdant mangroves or dive into the world’s second largest reef.
Tulum is perfect for acing your Mexican escape.
Playa del Carmen
Another firm favourite with seasoned Mexico travellers is Playa del Carmen. It personifies everything you think of when it comes to Mexico: beaches adorned with palm trees, colourful coral reefs, delightful restaurants and a vibrant nightlife. It’s also on the Caribbean coast, so expect azure waters to boot.
The effortlessly cool Fifth Avenue strip is packed full of boutiques, and after sunset comes alive with music and dancing. No we’re not talking New York, though the Mexican namesake is not too dissimilar.
From Playa del Carmen, it’s really easy to catch a ferry over to the island of Cozumel which is famous for impeccable beaches, diving and more. In fact, we’ll tell you all about it next.
Cozumel
Next on our list of which part of Mexcio is best for a holiday is Cozumel. Just off the coast of the Riviera Maya, lies the exotic island of Cozumel. As we mentioned earlier it’s famous for having stunning beaches and great diving opportunities. But not only this, the island also showcases nature at it’s very best, untouched and with many areas uninhabited, as the island has only 100,000 residents.
Getting here is super easy, just head over to the ferry port in downtown Playa del Carmen, hop on the ferry and in just 40 minutes you’ll arrive on this tropical island retreat, with an abundance of white sand beaches, exquisite coral reefs and colourful marine life.
The island is a great choice for a day trip and change of scenery.
Puerto Vallarta
Moving over to the Jalisco state and on the Pacific coast of Mexico is the popular resort town of Puerto Vallarta. It really is worth a visit, with the stand out attractions being stunning beaches, ample water sports and spectacular marine life. It’s a great option for the more adventurous traveller as there’s just so many outdoor activities to choose from. Think snorkelling, adrenaline fuelled zip-line experiences and more.
What really makes Puerto Vallarta special is the fact there’s an essence of Mexican culture thrown in for good measure. The epic Sierra Madre mountains surround the beaches, mountainous jungle surrounds the city and all this is juxtaposed with traditional cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings.
Puerto Vallarta is a great choice for those looking to experience the authentic side of Mexico.
Pueblos Magicos
As the name suggests Mexico’s magical towns comprise of 132 villages that have been awarded with this honour by the government for maintaining original architecture, folklore, culture, astonishing beauty and history. They are a keepsake of Mexican culture with their magical qualities and are home to some of the most enchanting myths and legends you will ever hear.
A prime example of a Pueblos Magicos is Tequila. Whilst you and I may know it as home of the renowned spirit, delve a little deeper and you’re greeted with an enchanting town. Not all the Pueblos Magicos are this well-known though so if you’re looking to experience authentic Mexico, check them out and discover these hidden gems that are off the beaten tourist track.
San Miguel de Allende
Hidden away in the central region of Mexico San Miguel de Allende is somewhat an icon when it comes to colourful streets, baroque architecture, a thriving arts scene, festivals and a fun, friendly atmosphere. It’s probably one of the most charming small towns in the whole of Mexico.
Buildings here date back to the 1600s, and the city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008 thanks to its stupendous colonial architecture and the important role it played in the Mexican War of Independence.
This old world charm is best seen at the centre of the town where La Parroquía, a neo-gothic church made of pink stone, proudly overlooks cobbles streets.
Discover one of the most exciting gastronomic scenes in Mexico, with markets full of fresh produce and an abundance of fine restaurants and rooftop bars.
Oaxaca
If good food appeals to you, then next on our list of destinations in Mexico to ace your escape is Oaxaca, widely known as the culinary capital of Mexico. The region is also the largest exporter of the spirit Mezcal.
The city is not without it’s fair share of ancient sites, with the well-preserved Monté Alban a great choice for history buffs to visit, as the site remained hidden for many years beneath mud, dust and natural formations.
Alongside majestic mountains there’s also 360 miles of stunning Pacific coastline to discover. The area is well known for its impressive tides, so much so that The Surf Open League, a worldwide championship is held here attracting thousands of surfers each year.
Akumal
Meaning ‘Place of the Turtle’ in Mayan, Akumal is a beautiful coastal resort in the Riviera Maya. It’s renowned for being one of the best places in Mexico to view sea turtles. Akumal beach boasts white sands, the second longest coral reef system in the world and warm waters full of fascinating and varied marine life.
In terms of holidays, Akumal presents a laid-back getaway with an authentic vibe. Here, you can experience the natural beauty of white-sand beaches without the crowds found in more well-known resorts. It’s also an excellent location for a spot of diving.
Head away from the beach and it’s easy to spend a few hours in the town with plenty of shops and galleries showcasing local art. Akumal should be a definite contender for which part of Mexico is best for a holiday.
Puerto Morelos
Located on the Caribbean coast is the picturesque port town of Puerto Morelos, somewhere in between the larger resorts of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Unlike it’s larger neighbours Puerto Morelos has retained some of the charm and character from days long passed when it was once a small fishing village.
There’s certainly lots to see here including the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park with its many dive sites and the numerous freshwater sinkholes that are also well worth a visit.
One of the most unique sights is the leaning lighthouse, El Faro Inclinado, located on the main beach, which has become somewhat of a symbol for the city.
Not to mention the National Marine park, just 100 metres offshore which forms part of The Great Mayan Reef. The reef is home to more than 500 species of fish and more than 65 species of coral. Snorkelling and scuba diving trips here are recommended to see the natural beauty close-up.
Baja Peninsula
Baja Peninsula is a little less well known than some of the other Mexican resort we’ve talked about but still offers great opportunities for a holiday.
The peninsula extends south from the US border and is right next to the Pacific Ocean. Cabo San Lucas, or simply Cabo is well-known for attracting a celebrity clientele and as such the beautiful beach is adorned with outdoor restaurants and bars. There’s even a bustling marina where impressive yachts are often displayed. From here its really easy to jump aboard a catamaran and sail out to view Cabo’s most famous landmark, a rock formation known as El Arco.
On the other hand, away from the marina there are swathes of huge sandy plains and the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range. Home to natural pools, ziplining adventures and more for the adrenaline junkies among you.
Costa Mujeres
Costa Mujeres can be found just north of Cancun and is well regarded for it’s beauty. It’s the perfect place to kick back and relax, yet in under 30 minutes you can be in Cancun with its bustling nightlife and restaurants. Plus, you’re only a short boat ride from Isla Mujeres.
Take your pick from a day spent on a white-sandy beach, dive in and snorkel off the coast or pack your clubs and play a round at Play Mujeres Golf Club, designed by Greg Norman.
Of course, this wouldn’t be Mexico without a Mayan marvel, in the form of El Meco. Or you can head over to Tulum for more archaeological wonders.
So Where Should I Go?
The answer to which part of Mexico is best for a holiday, completely depends on what type of traveller you are and what you’re looking to get out of your holiday.
If beaches, cocktails and nightlife are your thing, then without a doubt head to Cancun or Playa Del Carmen. Prefer a culture fix, then why not try somewhere off the beaten track like San Miguel del Allende or a Pueblos Magicos?
The opportunities are endless in Mexico. But for an all-round wholesome Mexican escape with the best of everything why not give Riviera Maya a try? Click the button below to learn more about four of the best TripAdvisor rated resorts in Riviera Maya.
